2006 Renault Megane RS Coupe 2.0L 16V Turbo 6MT FWD (224 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Less than two years after the RS’ introduction on the market in September 2004, Renault refreshed the hot-hatch lineup, but most of its changes were related to the car’s look.

In July 2006, the French carmaker considered upgrading the RS look along with the rest of the Megane range. But before that, in 2005, the automaker also made other changes that improved the car’s performance, but these were hardly noticed.

Since the RS already sported specific body panels, Renault considered that it should replace only specific parts, which were common with the rest of the Megane range. Unlike its five-door sibling, the RS Coupe featured body-colored door mirrors. At the front, the automaker redesigned the bumper, moving the fog lamps closer to the edges of the lower grille. In the rear, there was a new set of taillights, which sported bigger reversing light lenses. Also, the apron received a redesigned grille in the back but still sported the dual, center-mounted exhaust.

Inside, the carmaker installed a full-leather interior with side bolstering fitted as standard. At the same time, it offered sports seats on the options list. Its keyless start and entry was also a standard feature. From the factory, the car came fitted with aluminum sports pedals. It was the same bench in the back as any other three-door Megane. Along with the facelift, the Megane has received a new infotainment system.

Starting with 2005, the Megane RS also received a Cup chassis, which provided a lower ground clearance, a stiffer suspension, and a limited-slip differential. Thus, even if its engine provided the same power as the non-facelifted version, it could handle better during high-speed cornering.